GRAFTON MALL in Altrincham is all set for a millennium makeover - in a bid to make the area more eyecatching.

Redevelopment company 'Arcadia' have won the go-ahead to begin work on an exciting new design.

The company has already successfully transformed centres of a similar size in Brighton, Bournemouth and Nottingham.

And the managing director Rod Pearson says: "The mall has become rather dingy in areas and is generally not that good to look at. We are planning to open it up more, make it lighter and add some appealing new shops and a leading name theme bar - it will be much better."

He stresses that the work will not involve demolition of the existing site but will mean 'more of a gradual enhancement'.

Altrincham town centre manager Rebecca Nugent has given the project her full backing and says: "Grafton mall is a key site in Altrincham and it is excellent news that a company of the size and reputation of Arcadia have acquired it.

"The refurbishment will help to revitalise this property and compliment the existing shops in the upper end of George Street."

Among the businesses which will be affected by the project is Group Furniture, whose shop is situated near the top end of the mall.

There, enhtusiastic manager Bernard Eaton told SAM: "Our company is delighted that someone has decided to invest in Grafton Mall.

"We are totally committed to assisting with any scheme that injects new life into the area."

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